Compositions and methods for reducing hypercholesterolemia and, accordingly, the risk of cardiovascular disease, are provided. Such compositions may comprise isolated oil body associated proteins. Additionally provided are foodstuffs to which one or more oil body associated proteins have been added. The compositions employed in the invention may further comprise additive compounds, for example, a saponin, an isoflavone, a phospholipid, a carbohydrate substantially resistant to digestion, or a combination thereof. The methods and compositions of the invention may be used to lower cholesterol and other lipid levels in subjects to achieve a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease.